Friedman was thrust into the spotlight in 1980 when Life magazine published the iconic photo in an issue asking for the sailor, later identified as George Mendonsa, and nurse to come forward. Mendonsa, a sailor on leave overjoyed that Japan surrendered, grabbed Friedman as she entered Time Square. She was a 21-year-old dental assistant at the time.

Unbeknownst to either, noted Life magazine photographer Alfred Eisenstaedt captured the moment on Aug. 14, 1945, and published it a few weeks later. It became one of the most famous photographs of the 20th century.